AAMSAZ : Community & Culture in Motion

As we move through the month of March, we continue to celebrate, uplift, and connect our community through history, culture, and shared experiences.

At AAMSAZ, our work remains rooted in preserving stories while creating space for meaningful engagement across Southern Arizona.

Our Impact in Action

Thank you for being part of our growing community

and helping us expand our impact.

AAMSAZ Upcoming Events!

We’ve extended bidding for a limited time. Whether you were outbid at the last second

or just missed the window, the race is

back on for these exclusive items.

SHOP THE COLLECTION

✈️ LUXURY GETAWAYS: From weekend retreats to dream destinations.
👜 DESIGNER PURSES: High-end style for a great cause.
🎁 CURATED BASKETS: Perfect gifts (or a treat for yourself).

BID FOR A PURPOSE

Every winning bid directly supports the African American Museum of Southern Arizona (AAMSAZ). Your participation keeps our history and heritage thriving.

Two Ways to Win:

Click to Browse: AAMSAZ Silent Auction Link
Scan to Bid: Use the QR code to bid directly from your phone!

AAMSAZ From Fear to Freedom Swim Program

"Dive Into Opportunity"

Access to water—and the skills to navigate it safely—has not always been equitable. Our nationally award-winning AAMSAZ From Fear to Freedom Swim Program-"Dive Into Opportunity" continues this important work by creating pathways for confidence, safety, and empowerment in the water. In partnership with UA Aquatics, and inspired by the legacy of Elgie Batteau, this program reflects our commitment to transforming barriers of the past into opportunities for today’s community.

Deadline to Register 4/2/26. Click the Link Below & Register Today!

Review & Testimonial Spotlight

Thank you, Kristin, for bringing your son’s first-grade class to visit the museum. Hearing that the students were completely taken in by Rose and Nikieia’s storytelling means the world to us. Moments like the students sharing what they learned at the end of the tour are exactly why we do this work.

"Honored to be present not only to shake Tony's hand and meet him, but for the inspiration, motivation, and sharing his God fearing character to do right and treat people with kindness... As well as Tony's historical achievement and impact to the world! Thank you aamsaz for your leadership in our community."

—Desiree Cook

Founder/CEO

I Am You 360

Mission: Plant seeds of hope & watch our youth grow & become fruitful.

Learn More About I Am You 360

Get Connected: Community Events

Looking to get connected in the community?

Here are a few upcoming events happening across Southern Arizona.

If you attend, be sure to let them know AAMSAZ sent you!

Give Us a Like, Follow, & Share Today

Become a part of assisting us as we share high-quality educational programming, engaging content, and impactful cultural information with our community and the world.

Become A Member or Renew!

Become A Donor!

Nikieia Johnson

Director

African American Museum of Southern Arizona www.aamsaz.org

Office of Research and Partnerships |

The University of Arizona

Email: nikieiajohnson@arizona.edu

Phone: 520-621-2600

Museum: U of A Student Union Room #244

Photo by Joe Jackson, Jr.

Yours in Community,

Beverely Elliott,

Volunteer Executive Director

African American Museum of Southern Arizona (AAMSAZ)

We are a movement, not just a museum!

Giving and Sharing

Our Legacy Founder Investors (LFI), COX, TEP/UniSource Energy Services, Elliott Family Charity, Zuckerman Family Foundation, Tucson Foundation and our Legacy Builders

Paul and Alice Baker

Betsy Bruce

Thank you for your

unwavering support!

Congratulations Betsy Bruce for being named the Outstanding Philanthropist by the Association of Fundraising Professionals - Southern Arizona Chapter! More to come!

Supporting AAMSAZ | We love hearing from you!

Gifts in any amount are always welcomed. Please use our easy and secure online giving site.
Do you have a legacy story or an oral history to share? How about an African American or Black collection that you want to donate to AAMSAZ?
Let's connect. Please email us and let us know at nikieiajohnson@arizona.edu.

Our Website:

AAMSAZ.org

Seeking Volunteers

Join our team of volunteers!

Join the effort to preserve African American history and culture in Southern Arizona. AAMSAZ welcomes volunteers. Background checks will be conducted. We are committed to finding meaningful ways for you to contribute.

Please contact our Director at nikieiajohnson@arizona.edu to learn how you can volunteer.